Fire in Rocky Mountain National Park burns 300 acres

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Rocky Mountain National Park officials have released further information about a wildfire that was reported around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 9, approximately 2 miles west of Fern Lake Trailhead on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Following are excerpts:

The fire is west of Moraine Park, which is bisected by the

Bear Lake Road. As of 5 p.m. the fire was reported to be 300 acres and

burning to the north in steep, forested terrain. The fire is burning

up-slope toward alpine tundra. There are no structures threatened.

Park personnel are on scene and additional fire personnel and air support

have arrived. Due to steep, inaccessible terrain, crews will not be put on

the fire line tonight. Fire personnel will remain at the fire and will

monitor activity throughout the night. Fire crews and engines are on order

and one crew is expected to arrive after dark on Oct. 9.

Currently, Bear Lake Road, Upper Beaver Meadows Road and Moraine Park

Campground are closed. The campground was evacuated along with backcountry campsites and trails in the area of the fire. Trail Ridge Road, highway 34, remains open.

Trails west of Bear Lake Road and south of Trail Ridge Road are closed.

There have been no evacuations of residents in the Estes Park area, though

heavy smoke drifting over town has caused considerable concern. A fire

information number has been set up with a recorded message and will be

updated as conditions change. The number is 970-586-1381

An air tanker (SEAT) and heavy helitanker have arrived but due to cloudy

and turbulent conditions they are unable to fly.

Note: while the fire was very active this afternoon, it is expected that